When you’re in the process of building a new home or are remodeling your current property in Lafayette, Louisiana, it’s important to work on the electrical system. For the project to be completed, the work will need to pass inspections that are performed by the city. It’s important to be aware of some of the most common electrical code violations to ensure you can avoid them.
1. A Shortage of Receptacles
Failing to have enough receptacles on your property can lead to overloading the electrical system, which causes approximately 50,000 dwelling fires throughout the U.S., according to The National Fire Protection Association. Opt for installing the correct number of receptacles and avoid relying on extension cords to accommodate your devices and appliances.
2. Installing the Wrong Circuit Breaker
Failing to install a circuit breaker or installing the wrong circuit breaker can quickly lead to a fire when the current of electricity is too high. Instead of attempting to do this yourself, hire a professional from a company like Comeaux Electrical Services in Lafayette, Louisiana to confirm the type of circuit breaker that needs to be installed to avoid any issues.
3. Overcrowding Wires
Many people make the mistake of placing too many wires into a small hole during the rough-wiring stage. This is an electrical code violation because it can lead to burning and causing conductors to become exposed. Avoid placing more than three wires into a seven-eighths-inch hole to ensure the wires are capable of shifting.
4. New Wires on Old Fixtures
Some people resort to installing new light fixtures on old wires as a way to save time and cut corners. This is a code violation because new light fixtures are known to operate at a higher temperature. Many of the old buildings in Lafayette were built in the early 1900s, and the wires can only support lights that reach 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Opt for installing new wiring to avoid electrical fires.
5. Knob and Tube Wiring
Knob and tube wiring is extremely common in residential and commercial buildings in Lafayette, Louisiana due to the age of many of the buildings here. Unfortunately, this type of wiring is now hazardous. The wires aren’t grounded with this type of wiring, which makes them unsafe as the insulation tends to deteriorate over the years. Installing new wiring is necessary to avoid code violations when inspections are performed.
Contact our team of electricians at Comeaux Electrical Services in Lafayette at your convenience to learn more about common electrical code violations. Our team will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with our electrical services on your property.
